Bhubaneswar: Sports fans in India have reason to rejoice, as Odisha will host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028.
For the first time, the country will host the prestigious event, which will take place at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar from March 3 to 5, according to a press release issued by World Athletics Organisation.
In the past, Odisha has also hosted a World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meeting.
The decision to award the event to India was taken during the 240th World Athletics Council Meeting held in Toruń, Poland, on Thursday.
It was also decided that Astana in Kazakhstan will host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2030.
Sebastian Coe, World Athletics President, said that he was delighted to award the next two editions of the storied championships to Odisha and Astana.
He added that the World Indoors continued to go from strength to strength, captivating audiences around the world, and that the selection of the next two hosts reflected the organisation’s strategy of taking its events to emerging markets.
Meanwhile, Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed happiness over the Council’s decision.
In a post on X, he said, “The world is coming to India! Delighted to learn that Bhubaneswar, Odisha, will host the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships. Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, India is not only improving its medal tally on the global stage but also emerging as a premier destination for hosting major international sporting events.”
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also termed it a proud moment for both India and Odisha.
In a post on X, he said, “We have arrived on the global stage. The world is ready to witness the sports love our Odisha has to offer. Extremely proud to share that #Odisha is hosting the World Athletics Indoor Championships, 2028. With the Odisha edition, the prestigious event returns to India after 22 long years. This milestone reflects our emergence as a global sporting hub and our unwavering commitment to world-class excellence.”